Over the past few years, the workforce has undergone significant shifts in how we approach our 9-5 jobs and freelance professions. We have transitioned from working in the office five days a week to having the option to work from the comfort of our own homes. According to USA Today, approximately 14% of working individuals now work from home, and nearly 40% have a hybrid work model, reducing office time and commuting hours. However, with these changes comes the challenge of adjusting our social lives. Working from home all the time can lead to feelings of loneliness. This is especially true for individuals who have minimal contact with others, relying solely on emails and direct messages from coworkers throughout the day. It's also worth noting that over 47% of adults are single and unmarried. For those who work from home and don't actively seek social interaction, the experience can be isolating.
As a small business owner and entrepreneur, I spend most of my time behind the computer, focusing on designing and strategizing. However, early on in my journey, I realized that I craved human interaction. Despite engaging in messaging, social media scrolling, and tweeting, I acknowledged that I am an extrovert and needed to socialize outside my home.
Joining organizations like Let’s Shake The Table to satisfy my social cravings and contribute to my community has shifted my social life. Attending networking events and collaborating with other business owners allowed me to build a supportive social circle rather than remaining isolated in my home office. This approach not only provided me with the social life I desired but also fostered a healthy lifestyle within my community. My message to those working from home is this: Can a person thriving in their work-from-home environment also have a vibrant social life? The answer is YES! Get involved in local events, engage with peers, and make it a point to visit a coffee shop at least once a week. Your social life will thank you.
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